The Federal Trade Commission of the United States has issued a second wave of Fortnite refund payments totaling $126M. The sum was split among nearly one million Fortnite players who were charged for in-game items without consent. The historic settlement marks the FTC’s more assertive approach to consumer protection against manipulative monetization practices within the gaming industry.
Fortnite Refund Timeline
The latest round brings the Fortnite refund total to nearly $200M, following the $72M payout in December 2024. The refund(s) stem from a 2022 settlement with Fortnite developer, Epic Games, who agreed to pay $245M to resolve allegations that they used ‘dark patterns’ or design tricks that manipulated players into unintended transactions. According to reports, some players claimed their accounts were locked after disputing charges which were also grounds for distress and harm according to the FTC.
Fortnite Image via igdb.com
According to the filing, Epic Games’ user interface previously allowed players, including minors, to complete microtransactions with a single click or button press. As previously noted, the FTC alleged that the interface was intentionally designed to dupe players into paying for goods unintentionally. Epic Games has since revamped it’s user interface to require intentional, deliberate, hold-to-confirm purchases.
FTC Fortnite Refund, New Claims Due July 9th, 2025
New claims for Fortnite refunds are being accepted through July 9th, 2025 offering a final opportunity for players to seek restitution. FTC’s move reflects a shift toward enforcing ethical UX design. This also signifies a larger conversation on whether user choices within any software interface is a matter of regulatory concern.
About Epic Games
Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. Providing cutting-edge 3D engine technology while operating one of the world’s largest video games, Fortnite.
About FTC
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a bipartisan federal agency that advocates for the interests of American consumers. Their mission is to protect the public from deceptive or unfair methods of competition. Whether through law enforcement, advocacy, research, or education.
SOURCE: The Federal Trade Commission
